In a world filled with sorrow and conflict, there are stories that touch our hearts in unimaginable ways, reminding us of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment. Today, we remember Maayan, an 18-year-old Israeli, who tragically lost her life in a heart-wrenching incident on October 7, 2023.
Maayan’s story is one that brings tears to our eyes and reminds us of the devastating impact that violence and hatred can have on innocent lives. She was taken from us in a senseless act of terror orchestrated by Hamas, a group that has left a trail of pain and suffering in its wake.
On that fateful day, they captured Maayan’s neighbor, a person she trusted, and used this trust to trick her into opening the door. What happened next is a nightmare that no one should ever have to witness. Maayan’s life was brutally taken from her, right in front of her father. The horror of that moment is unimaginable, and the pain that her family must have endured is beyond words.
This is Maayan, my husband’s relative. Balloons from her 18th birthday still lingered at home when Hamas used a neighbour to trick their way in to kill her. They livestreamed the family for hours then took her father to Gaza covered in his child’s blood.
The evil. It’s too big. pic.twitter.com/F86JZJbuu5
— Heidi Bachram (@HeidiBachram) October 19, 2023
As we remember Maayan, we also hold in our thoughts Ms. Tsachi’s father, who is currently being held hostage in Gaza. The anguish and uncertainty that her family is going through is something that no one should experience.
Today, on what would have been Maayan’s birthday, we offer our deepest condolences to her family, friends, and all those who knew and loved her. While we cannot bring her back, we can honor her memory by condemning acts of violence and hatred, and by advocating for peace and understanding.
Maayan’s story is a tragic reminder of the consequences of conflict, but it is also a call to action. We must work tirelessly to ensure that such senseless acts are never repeated. We must strive for a world where individuals like Maayan can live their lives without fear, where parents don’t have to bury their children, and where peace prevails over hatred.
In our collective sorrow, we remember Maayan and all those who have been touched by the pain of conflict. May her memory inspire us to work for a brighter, more peaceful future, where no one has to endure such heartache.
Rest in peace, Maayan. You will never be forgotten.
This is Tsachi, my husband’s relative now captive in Gaza. His daughter was killed by Hamas and the family’s torment livestreamed for hours. His wife Gali says he’s the strongest person she knows. She says her soul cries.
“I will bleed until he comes back.”
Bring them home. pic.twitter.com/gxvIvHsxQP
— Heidi Bachram (@HeidiBachram) October 19, 2023